Eloquence Higgs checked the bronze clock above a shop sign as she walked down the High Street with her lady's maid, concerned she was running late — but, as it transpired, she was actually a touch early! Outside the Painted Lady, Loq bid a smiling farewell to Shaw, who had an errand to run at Scrivenshaft’s, and entered the tea room alone to meet some of her friends.

Only her friends weren't there yet. Regardless, the waiter recognised Eloquence, and seated her at her usual table by the bay window, which this afternoon boasted a sunny view of Winter merging into Spring. Loq thanked the waiter, and straightened a spoon distractedly — only for it to fall onto the floor with a delicate clatter.  "Oopsy daisy", she muttered brightly, and bent to pick it up... and in doing so noticed something very peculiar on the other side of the room.